Ok! I just finished watching a Tubi horror flick called The Candy Store. After watching the trailer, I was already flustered at the thought of wasting even more of my precious time watching the full movie—but I did. Just so I could write an honest review.
What had me choking on my water was a comment I saw in a snapshot review:
“The low reviews on this are because the movie takes place in the hood.”
Now, you know I screamed, “NO, IT’S NOT!”
Are they serious? Did they watch the same movie I saw? Listen, I understand wanting to support your people, giving credit where credit is due, but let’s be real first. If I were to make a movie, I’d do a private screening with family, friends, and a few outside critics before releasing it. And yes, I’d still put my movie out no matter what feedback I got—but at least I’d know what to expect. I don’t need folks sugarcoating things for me. Be blunt, be honest. That’s the only way you grow.
I’m not naming names, but let’s just say, as a collective, people will back you—whether your content is bad or good. That’s great for support, but not when it comes to honest critique. And trust me, as a writer, I get defensive too. But you gotta have thick skin in this business… and in life, period.
The Movie Itself
The trailer didn’t reel me in, but I still took the dive—headfirst into the murky waters of The Candy Store.
The music? It wasn’t outright wrong for the film, but it lacked the tension and intensity you need in horror and suspense. And I’m assuming—without even double-checking—that this movie is a horror film. The characters? A few were okay. The plot? It had promise.
A mysterious older woman running a candy store? That’s a familiar setup for many of us who grew up with those neighborhood candy houses. Then there’s the big, suspicious older guy—the classic “a little off” character. You know, the one kids either like or avoid. In this case, the kids seem aware of him, maybe even wary.
But here’s where the cracks start showing. The parents mention that there’s something wrong with his face—an accident, a birth defect, something. Then we actually see him, and… his face is fine. Absolutely nothing wrong. 😂
I kept trying to find the missing link between the story, the characters, and why it just wasn’t working. As an aspiring writer and possible filmmaker, I watch tons of movies and read as many scripts as I can to grow creatively. I know that filmmaking is a whole beast on its own. What works on paper doesn’t always translate well to the screen. But some would say, “Just because you can, doesn’t mean you should.”
I don’t buy into that logic. Not fully. I believe in doing it all and seeing where you land. Will it hurt? Maybe. But not that much. And I’m sure everyone involved in this film had fun making it.
What Could’ve Saved It
The gore? Unnecessary. Sometimes not showing something is more effective than showing too much. This could’ve worked in the film’s favor.
We didn’t need to see the “scary” guy right away—and when we did, he should’ve been seen briefly, obscured, never in full view. And that scene with the boy’s legs dangling out of the garbage bag? We didn’t need that either. The horror could’ve been stronger if they left more to the imagination.
Final Thoughts
The story itself could’ve made for a great horror film. It just didn’t hit the right marks. As a horror fan, I wanted to be scared, tense, on edge. Instead, I was left feeling like I’d just watched something that wanted to be horror, but didn’t quite get there.
Would I recommend it? Ehh. If you like watching indie horror for the experience, maybe. If you’re looking for something genuinely scary? Keep scrolling.